One Doctor Is Good Medicine
Sticking with the same doctor can help keep your child out of the hospital.
Children who bounce from physician to physician are 60% more likely to seek emergency room care, and 54% more likely to be hospitalized. To ensure good healthcare decisions over the long-term, help your pediatrician get to know your child and your family. Doing so also will help your child feel more comfortable going to the doctor.
Parents who have a long-term cooperative relationship with their child's doctor have a better understanding of their family's health issues, and instead of heading to the hospital, they're more willing to wait for an office visit.
Unfortunately, some insurance programs make it difficult to see the same doctor, or force patients to switch doctors just when things are getting comfortable. If your choices are limited, make sure every visit with a doctor, even if it's someone you've never seen before, is an informed and educated visit. Make a list of questions before you go, and jot down any pertinent information about your child's health. Keep track of your child's health history and vaccination record. Ask questions and give as much information about your child as possible. Find out about follow-up care before you leave, and ask the doctor to be specific. If your child is given a prescription, follow the directions exactly and don't be afraid to call the office with any concerns. And, see if your insurance company has an urgent-care hotline designed to help determine the necessity of an emergency room visit.
